…”the hand of the Lord has gone out against me.”

Ruth 1:13 ESV

What is happening when the Lord’s hand comes down? What does Naomi say?

“the Lord has brought me back empty.”

Ruth 1:21 ESV

She saw it as a bad thing. I hope you see it as the best thing. Our desire is to be empty of ourselves and filled with all the fullness of God. He’s at work fulfilling our desire for Himself.

What’s our response?

It is good that one should hope and wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. Let him sit alone and keep silent, because God has laid it on him.

Lam. 3:26,28 NKJV

Recognize God’s hand. He’s there and in control. Wait. Hope. Be still and silent and look to Him for salvation.

Here’s another.

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

1 Pet 5:6-7 NKJV

What do we do? Pray and cast our cares on Him. Know He cares. Wait humbly.

God should feel near in suffering. He does not despise a broken spirit and contrite heart. He is near the humble.

He does oppose the proud. Acting like God has done you wrong or that you know better in your situation is a proud response.

Worship Him with a heart of thanks. He does all things well.